Chief Academic Officer

Caroline County Public Schools•Denton, MD

20h

About The Position

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Schools, the Chief Academic Officer is responsible for leading and managing all programs and processes that promote and sustain the instructional framework for the school district. This executive-level position provides innovative leadership, management oversight, and ensures accountability for curriculum, instruction, assessment, early learning, career and technical education, special education, and related student services. The Chief Academic Officer reports directly to the Superintendent of Schools and may represent and act in the Superintendent's stead as directed.

Requirements

Master's degree required in educational administration, curriculum and instruction, or related field
Holds or is eligible for a valid Maryland Certificate with appropriate Administrator II endorsement (or equivalent Supervisor of Instruction, Assistant Principal, or Principal certification)
Must meet Maryland State certification requirements
Minimum of eight years of progressive administrative experience in a school or academic setting
Thorough knowledge of Public School Laws of Maryland, State Board of Education bylaws, and Board of Education policies
Thorough understanding of Maryland PreK-12 content standards and pedagogy needed to improve student achievement
Knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures relating to curriculum and instruction for general education, special education, and related student services
Knowledge of school improvement and organizational change strategies and initiatives
Knowledge of diversity, cultural proficiency, and equity issues
Knowledge of county, state, and federal regulations pertaining to public education and administrative services
Working knowledge of curriculum, personalized learning, and alignment of technology with strategic planning
Knowledge of principles of teaching and learning and their relationship to technology
Strong interpersonal communication skills, both oral and written
Ability to use computer technology and data analysis in administrative and educational settings
Proficiency in grant writing and management of federal and state grants
Excellent organizational ability
Ability to manage, supervise, motivate, lead, and challenge teams
Ability to set, communicate, and assess program priorities and performance standards
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with multiple constituencies, School Board members, and federal, state, and county officials
Thorough understanding of organizational structure with direct experience in effecting systemic reform
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines
Reacts to change productively and adapts to evolving educational landscapes
Ability to work collaboratively across departments to ensure alignment and execution with fidelity
This is an exempt 12-month position with a minimum of 37.5 hours per week.

Nice To Haves

Doctorate in Educational Leadership, School Administration, Curriculum and Instruction, or related field preferred
Holds or is eligible for Superintendent's endorsement (preferred)
Minimum of five years of classroom teaching experience preferred
Successful experience as a school principal preferred
This is an executive-level position requiring the highest standards of professional conduct, confidentiality, and ethical practice. The Chief Academic Officer must demonstrate commitment to equity, excellence, and continuous improvement in service to all students.

Responsibilities

Develops and implements a comprehensive strategy for educational programs, including curriculum, instruction, assessment, early learning, creative and performing arts, career and technical education, and instructional support programs
Leads the development and implementation of the district's instructional framework with a focus on raising student achievement, closing achievement gaps, and school improvement
Develops short- and long-term plans for the district's instructional program aligned with the Strategic Plan
Conducts strategic analyses and develops clear, quantifiable goals and objectives for culturally responsive educational practices
Serves as the designated Blueprint for Maryland's Future Coordinator
Ensures proper alignment of curriculum to state curricular goals, outcomes, and PreK-12 content standards
Oversees the study, adoption, and implementation of new instructional materials, supplies, equipment, and programs
Supports systemic focus on increased academic rigor and challenging content for all students
Manages and oversees early learning, creative and performing arts, curriculum and instruction, career and technical education, emergent multilingual learner programs, special services, and instructional support programs
Supports school improvement initiatives and provides oversight to ensure district goals are met
Monitors and evaluates the performance of direct reports including appropriate directors and supervisors
Oversees professional development for teachers, school administrators, and staff to accelerate student achievement across all student groups
Identifies, supports, and monitors training and strategies for addressing gaps in student performance
Provides counsel and direction to principals and program managers on educational issues
Manages high-performing action teams tasked with implementing equitable and inclusive instructional practices
Participates in the preparation, development, and administration of the school system's budget
Develops and implements procedures and strategies relating to efficient delivery of services
Manages grant writing and administration of federal and state grants
Acts as designated liaison with education leaders in curriculum and instruction at state, regional, and national levels
Serves as district liaison to external instruction and curriculum-related committees, task forces, and work groups
Acts for the Superintendent’s designee at various meetings, conferences, and functions as needed
Advises the Superintendent on policy and operational matters
Develops and prepares recommendations to improve efficiency and further district goals
Ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations
Serves on the Superintendent's Leadership Team
Oversees recruitment, selection, assignment, supervision, and evaluation of personnel
Performs other duties as assigned by the Superintendent